Applications are now being accepted for the 2026–27 Accelerate Siouxland leadership development program through the Northwestern College Center for Innovation and Leadership.
Leadership Development Opportunity Returns to Siouxland
According to Northwestern, the regional program is designed to help participants strengthen leadership skills, build professional connections across northwest Iowa, and engage in projects that benefit Siouxland communities.
Accelerate Siouxland combines leadership training, networking opportunities, and hands-on community engagement throughout the eight-month program. Participants work through Franklin Covey leadership materials, including “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” “6 Critical Practices for Leading a Team,” and “Unconscious Bias.”
Organizers say cohort members also collaborate on a practical regional project while connecting with leaders from business, government, education, healthcare, agriculture, nonprofit, and faith-based organizations.
Participant Feedback
One participant from last year’s cohort said, “Accelerate Siouxland has challenged my beliefs and values so I can see different perspectives and experiences while helping me grow deeper in my beliefs.”
Another participant shared, “Accelerate Siouxland helped me grow personally, socially, and professionally.”
Program Details
This year’s cohort will again be led by Russ Adams, assistant director of Northwestern’s Center for Innovation and Leadership and director of the college’s Master of Education program in educational administration.
Sessions are scheduled for the second Thursday of each month from September through April at locations throughout Siouxland. Topics include government, community development, business and industry, healthcare, education, agriculture, nonprofits, and faith and values.
The cost of the program is $925 and includes materials along with micro-credentials recognizing participants’ professional and personal development.
Applications will be accepted through Aug. 14. More information is available through Northwestern College’s Accelerate Siouxland page.
